best nespresso vertuo machine nespresso machine (click here for more info) Reviews
Brigitt Earley, a Good Housekeeping Institute specialist, has evaluated and tested many kitchen appliances. She also writes about other household items and gadgets.
The top Nespresso machines provide a wide range of drinks, are easy to operate and clean, and they heat up quickly. They should work with the original Nespresso capsules, and come with a specific capsule container that is used.
1. The Vertuo Creatista
The Vertuo Creatista is a new model from Nespresso's lineup and it fills an important niche. It's the first and so far only Vertuo machine with an integrated milk frother and it's an excellent addition to the range.
The machine is a middle of the line Vertuo model with a premium stainless steel design. It comes with a 2L tank of water, as well as a removable drip plate that allows you to use your own travel cup or mug. It utilizes Nespresso's Centrifusion technology to brew capsules and can make a variety of drinks. This includes espresso, lungo and alto as well as cappuccino latte and macchiato.
It's compatible with the original Nespresso capsules as well as their Vertuo Line counterparts. The machine can detect the barcode on the lip of the pod and know the best cheap espresso machine settings to use to get the best automatic coffee machine results. This makes it one of the most intelligent machines in the lineup.
As with other Nespresso machines, the Creatista is able to heat up quickly in time due to its thermoblock system. The only issue is that it takes a bit longer to produce an Espresso shot than other models.
The big draw for most people, however, will be the built-in milk frother. The wand is akin to the manual steam wands found on other espresso machines. However, it's completely automated and comes with temperature and the ability to control the texture. This is a fantastic feature for anyone who loves adding milk to their coffee and it makes the Creatista an attractive choice for a large number of customers. Before, Nespresso milk-based coffee was only available on the Aeroccino and Lattissima models.
2. The CitiZ
This sleek, compact machine from Nespresso is a great addition to any kitchen. It's easy to clean and consumes fewer energy resources than most other pod-based machines we've tested yet still delivers a great cup of coffee.
In our latest tests it was found that the CitiZ performed well in single-serve mode and larger brewing mode. It also has a number of cool features, such as the ability to connect via WiFi or Bluetooth (for tracking capsules and maintenance alerts) and the capacity of the water tank to hold up to 32 ounces, and an elegant and modern design.
The machine's fast heat-up feature brings water to the ideal temperature in only 25 seconds. The automatic energy-saving function will shut down the machine after nine minutes. You'll need a separate attachment to add milk to coffee if you'd like to do so.
The CitiZ's labeled, easy-to-use button is among our favorites. You can choose from a range of single-serve beverages, including espresso shots in three sizes and milk-based drinks such as cappuccinos and lattes.
The CitiZ might be a bit more expensive than the Essenza Mini or other compact OriginalLine models. However, it offers several extra features that some customers might find worth the cost. For instance it's the very first Nespresso model that uses 40% recycled plastic. Additionally, it has the possibility of connecting to a smartphone app for maintenance alerts, brewing instructions and capsule tracking.
The CitiZ's water reservoir, drip tray, and capsule container are removable to allow for easy cleaning. It has a descaling mode built in. However, the frequency you need to run it will depend on the hardness of your water at home. We suggest softened or filtered water, which can reduce the amount of mineral buildup.
3. The Essenza Mini
The Mini is the tiniest Nespresso machine available and is a sleek tower with simple lines that is able to fit in the tiniest kitchens. It's ideal for those who are just beginning their journey with Nespresso or for those who don't have lots of money to spend and don't care about additional features (like Bluetooth or a latte-art tool) that won't improve their coffee. But just because it's tiny doesn't mean the Mini can't do its job well: it can brew espressos, ristrettos, and lungos with ease. It's also the most simple and cheapest Nespresso to clean, maintain and operate.
If you're looking for something a bit bigger than the Mini, there's the Nespresso Essenza Plus. It's a smaller model with the same brewing technology and minimalist design. It also comes with a Nespresso capsule jug and container as well as an adjustable water tank. It's also a bit more expensive, but it could be worth the extra expense if you'll be making mostly Americanos or if you'd like to brew larger quantities of ristretto or espresso.
The Lattissima machines are the newest addition to the Essenza range. They offer the convenience of one touch, and a variety of beverage options. The Lattissima Pro and Gran Lattissima all have a milk reservoir on the front and an ice-maker to make cappuccinos or lattes. These are also more expensive than Essenza Minis, however they are is worth it if your aim is to to make large-sized milky drinks whenever you want them without lifting a pod.
4. The Vertuo Plus
If you're seeking a machine that can brew larger cups of coffee and espresso-style shots This VertuoLine model could be up your alley. It is compatible with the pods that came with the brand, but you can also use third-party pods. It comes with two programable buttons to choose between alto and regular sizes. It also has an extremely quiet centrifusion process that draws water through 20 punctures in the capsule's domed top which Nespresso claims will produce the highest level of crema in each drink.
This model is a great option for those who are looking for an unbeatable, reliable espresso and coffee at the touch of one button. It doesn't have too many bells and whistles. It performed well in our Single-Serve Coffee Makers lab tests, particularly in terms of first-cup speed and repeat speed.
It's one of the cheapest machines from Nespresso and has a small footprint. The only drawback is that it doesn't have a large capacity for storing used capsules and has smaller water tanks than other models.
If you're looking to make milk-based drinks such as cappuccinos and lattes, it's worth spending an extra amount of money into a model that has an integrated frother. The Lattissima, Creatista and Nespresso inissia all have been designed to create milk-based drinks with minimum hassle.
A key thing to remember is that all Nespresso machines must be descaled once every year. The company claims it is easy to perform, and the machine will inform you when it's required. You can also purchase descaling kits from the manufacturer for a more hands-off approach.
5. The Creatista Pro
If you're a Nespresso lover who likes milk-based coffees such as the Creatista Pro may be a suitable choice for you. Similar to its sibling, the Creatista Plus, it offers different beverage options and is easy to use. The milk frother can be adjusted manually to alter the temperature and texture of the milk. It is also automated and self-cleaning. The result is smooth, frothy and creamy milk perfect for lattes and cappuccinos.
This Original Line machine uses Nespresso Vertuo pods. It can make espresso in three different sizes or milk-based drinks like cappuccinos and macchiatos latte. It's easy to use, with large LED displays and buttons labeled for each drink type. It also comes with a barista-style steam wand to make milk and an ice jug that are less messy to clean than the standard integrated frothers on most Nespresso machine.
The Creatista Pro is a bit more expensive than the other models listed here but it's a premium machine that's simple to use and looks gorgeous on your countertop. It also comes with a complimentary Tamper and reusable capsules which will save you money in the long run.
For a cheaper alternative, look into the Nespresso CitiZ&Milk. It may not come with as many bells, whistles and features like the Creatista however it does offer an array of drinks, including lattes, cappuccinos, and three different espresso sizes. It offers a more user-friendly interface, with just a single button to turn the machine on and rinsing. It's also small and compact, and it has a moveable water tank that allows you to easily adjust it to your kitchen's layout.